Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a 24 km high valley in the Kitzbühel Alps, surrounded by peaks such as the Großer Beil, the Breiteggspitze, the Lämpersberg, and the Schwaigberghorn. The valley has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, with an average temperature of -2°C in January and 18°C in July. It receives about 1000 mm of precipitation per year, mostly in the form of snow in winter and rain in summer. The best time to visit Wildschönau is from May to October, when the weather is mild and sunny.
The valley has a long history of mining, farming, and craftsmanship, reflecting in its traditions, customs, and architecture. It is known for its hospitality, friendliness, and local cuisine. The Wildschönau Card and the Dragon Winter Night Ski are some of the unique features of this region. The Wildschönau Card is a free guest card that allows visitors to use the transportation system, cable cars, museums, swimming pool, guided hikes, and discounts for various attractions and activities in the valley and the surrounding area. The Dragon Winter Night Ski is a special event that takes place every Wednesday night during the winter season, featuring skiers dressed as dragons, a firework display, and a live DJ.
Wildschönau consists of four main villages, each with its own charm and character. Niederau is the largest and most lively village, with shops, restaurants, and bars. Oberau is the administrative center of the valley, with a church, a museum, and a school. Auffach is the highest village, with access to the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski area. Thierbach is the smallest and most secluded village, with a romantic atmosphere and a panoramic view.
- Niederau is the first village that visitors encounter when they enter the valley. It is the main tourist hub, with a variety of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. Niederau has a cable car that connects the village with the Markbachjoch mountain, which is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and paragliders. Niederau also has a ski area that is suitable for beginners and families, with gentle slopes and a ski school. Niederau is the host of the Dragon Winter Night Ski, the Wildschönau Sled Race, and the Wildschönau Paragliding Cup.
- Oberau is the second village in the valley, and the seat of the municipality. It is the cultural and historical center of the valley, with a Gothic church, a heritage museum, and a library. Oberau has a ski area that is ideal for intermediates and experts, with challenging slopes and a snow park. Oberau also has a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a mini golf course. Oberau is the host of the Wildschönau Easter Festival, the Wildschönau Harvest Festival, and the Wildschönau Christmas Market.
- Auffach is the third village in the valley, and the highest one. It is the gateway to the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski area, which has 109 km of ski slopes, 45 ski lifts, and 25 ski huts. The ski area is suitable for all levels of difficulty and terrain, and it offers a panoramic view of the valley and the mountains. Auffach also has a cheese dairy, a chapel, and a restaurant at the Schönangeralm, a mountain pasture that produces the famous Wildschönau Krautinger, a schnapps made from turnips. Auffach is the host of the Wildschönau Mountain Festival, the Wildschönau Almabtrieb, and the Wildschönau Ice Sculpture Festival.
- Thierbach is the fourth and last village in the valley, and the smallest one. It is a hidden gem, with only 200 inhabitants and a few farms. Thierbach has a charming and peaceful atmosphere, with a Baroque church, a school, and a bakery. Thierbach has no ski area, but it has a cross-country ski trail and a toboggan run. Thierbach also has a hiking trail that leads to the Thierbach Circular Trail, a scenic loop that offers a stunning view of the valley and the peaks. Thierbach is the host of the Wildschönau Flower Parade, the Wildschönau Open Air Concert, and the Wildschönau New Year’s Eve Fireworks.
Wildschönau is a popular valley in Tirol, known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. The valley offers various hiking trails for all levels of difficulty and duration, including the Wildschönau Panorama Trail, Kundler Klamm Gorge Trail, Schönangeralm Trail, and Thierbach Circular Trail. The valley also offers guided hikes, themed hikes, and hiking maps.
Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions in the winter season, as the valley is part of the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski area, which covers the villages of Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Alpbach. The ski area has 109 km of slopes, 45 ski lifts, and 25 ski huts, suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts. The valley also has a snow park, a ski school, and a ski rental service.
Cycling and mountain biking are another way to experience the valley and the mountains. Some of the most popular cycling routes include the Wildschönau Valley Cycle Path, the Niederau-Oberau-Auffach Cycle Path, and the Wildschönau Mountain Bike Tour. The valley also offers bike rentals, bike service, and bike maps.
Paragliding and adventure sports are available in the valley, with several providers, launch sites, and landing sites, including the Wildschönau Paragliding Cup. Adventure sports such as rafting, canyoning, climbing, and zip-lining are also available in the valley. The Wildschönau Adventure Park, the Wildschönau Rafting Center, and the Wildschönau Canyoning Team provide these activities.
Wildschönau has many attractions that showcase its culture, history, and nature. Some of the most popular attractions include the Markbachjochbahn, a cable car connecting the village of Niederau with the Markbachjoch mountain, the Schönangeralm, a mountain pasture with a cheese dairy and a chapel, the Wildschönau Heritage Museum, and the Farming and Cultural Experiences program.
The Markbachjochbahn connects the village of Niederau with the Markbachjoch mountain, offering a panoramic view of the valley and surrounding peaks. The Schönangeralm is a mountain pasture at the end of the valley, at 1170 m above sea level, with a cheese dairy, chapel, and restaurant. The Wildschönau Heritage Museum displays local traditions and crafts, such as mining, farming, woodworking, weaving, and embroidery, and offers guided tours and workshops.
Wildschönau, located in the heart of Tirol, Austria, is a truly captivating valley that offers numerous reasons to pay it a visit. The Kitzbühel Alps offer a wide range of hiking and skiing opportunities, with breathtaking views and a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. Experience the rich history and culture of the region through its museums, local customs, and the legendary dragon that inspired the coat of arms. The regional cuisine offers a delightful array of cheese specialities, traditional dishes, and the one-of-a-kind Krautinger schnapps crafted from white beet. Local events and celebrations like village festivals, Alpine Advent, and Dragon Winter Night offer a great opportunity to join in the fun. The Wildschönau Card provides complimentary or reduced access to a variety of services and attractions in the valley, allowing you to make the most of your visit. Wildschönau is a destination that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and rejuvenation.
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Geography Of Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a valley in the Tyrolean Alps, located in the western part of Austria. It connects to Wörgl and Hopfgarten im Brixental via roads and is surrounded by mountain ranges such as Gratlspitz, Schatzberg, Joelspitze, Lampersberg, Kleiner Beil, Großer Beil, and Sonnjoch. The Ache river runs from south to north, passing through Auffach and Mühltal until it reaches the Kundler Gorge.
The western valley is surrounded by mountains like Gratlspitz, Schatzberg, Joelspitze, Lampersberg, Kleiner Beil, Großer Beil, and Sonnjoch. The Alpbachtal is the western border of this mountain range. The eastern valley is enclosed by the Wildschönauer Ache and has several peaks, including Roßkopf, Feldalphorn, Schwaigberghorn, Breitegg-Gern, Wildkarspitze, and Breiteggspitze.
The Siedeljoch pass connects the mountains mentioned above at the south end of the valley and gives access to the Langen Grund (Kelchsau). The Roßkopf and Markbachjoch peaks, both 1440 meters high, define the south edge of the eastern valley at Niederau. The valley is surrounded by mountains on all sides, serving as its natural boundaries.
Weather & Climate In Wildschönau
The climate of Wildschönau falls under the oceanic (Cfb) category in the Köppen-Geiger climate classification system. Wildschönau experiences mild and humid conditions year-round, with moderate temperature fluctuations and no periods of dry weather. Despite its high altitude (ranging from 828 to 2309 meters above sea level), Wildschönau also encounters subalpine and alpine climate characteristics.
Wildschönau receives an average annual rainfall of 1,173 mm, surpassing both the national average of 1,100 mm and the regional average of 1,000 mm. The precipitation is evenly spread out throughout the year, with no month receiving less than 60 mm or more than 140 mm of rainfall. August is the wettest month, receiving an average of 137 mm of rainfall, while December is the driest month.
The average annual temperature in Wildschönau is 7.4°C, which is slightly lower than both the national and regional averages. There is a notable fluctuation in temperature throughout the year, with a 20°C contrast between the coldest and warmest months. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of -1.9°C, while July is the warmest month, with an average temperature of 18.1°C.
Demographics Of Wildschönau
Wildschönau, a municipality in Austria, has a population of 4,061 people, with 2,048 males and 2,013 females. The population density is 44 people per square kilometer, and the median age is 40.1 years. The municipality consists of four church villages and several hamlets. The population growth rate was moderate, with a 56.5% increase from 1869 to 2015.
Wildschönau is predominantly German-speaking, with a strong cultural identity and heritage. The majority of the population belongs to the Roman Catholic Church and follows the traditions and customs of the Tyrolean Alps. The valley attracts tourists and visitors from different parts of the world, especially during winter and summer seasons, adding to the multicultural atmosphere of the region.
The age distribution of Wildschönau’s population is skewed towards older age groups, with a higher percentage of older individuals. According to the 2011 census data, the education levels of the population aged 15 and over are as follows: Compulsory (35.4%), Apprenticeship (34.0%), Secondary (16.7%), Tertiary (12.5%), and No information (51.6%).
Districts & Neighborhoods in Wildschönau
Wildschönau valley is divided into four charming church villages: Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach, each with its own distinct attractions. Niederau, the largest village in Wildschönau, is well-known for its beginner and intermediate ski resort. It also has cross-country and snowshoeing trails. The village is home to the valley’s oldest church, St. Sixtus Church.
Oberau, the municipality’s administrative center, is a picturesque village with old farmhouses and a Baroque church. It is a popular hiking and biking destination, with trails that showcase the valley’s natural beauty. The Healing Herb Trail leads to the Norderbergalm, a mountain hut where medicinal herbs are grown and sold. Oberau also has a local history museum.
Auffach, at the valley’s end, serves as the entrance to the Schatzberg ski resort. It has a new cable car, a toboggan run, a snow park, and a ski school. Auffach has a rich mining history and a mining museum that showcases mining technology and history in Wildschönau. Thierbach, Wildschönau’s smallest village, is a peaceful and idyllic setting perched on a sunny plateau above the valley.
Culture and Local Tradition of Wildschönau
Wildschönau, a valley in Tyrol, is known for its rich history, heritage, and strong sense of identity. The four villages of Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach are home to a vibrant culture that is deeply rooted in tradition. The people of Wildschönau celebrate their customs and traditions through vibrant festivals, traditional costumes, and crafts.
Some of the most notable festivals and processions in Wildschönau include the Wildschönau Almabtrieb, which celebrates the return of cattle from alpine pastures in September, featuring a parade of decorated cows, music, dancing, and local delicacies. This event is one of the largest and most colorful in Tyrol and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
The Wildschönau Krautinger Week, held in October, honors the unique beet schnapps, a unique product of the valley. The festival showcases the history and production of the Krautinger, its culinary and medicinal uses, and features tastings, exhibitions, workshops, and concerts. The Wildschönau Christmas Market, held in December, offers a variety of local products, crafts, and delicacies.
Economy Of Wildschönau
Wildschönau, has a rich and varied economic history, with activities such as mining, farming, timber, cheese, and schnapps production, tourism, services, and crafts. The valley is home to approximately 4,200 residents, residing in four charming villages: Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach. The valley’s economy is deeply rooted in the values and traditions of the region.
Mining has been a vital activity in Wildschönau, with the first silver mine in Tyrol found in the 15th century within the Schatzberg mountain. The mine was operated by the Fugger family, a prominent banking dynasty from Augsburg, who held exclusive control over the silver trade in Europe. The mine produced silver and copper, employing hundreds of workers.
The tourism industry in Wildschönau has greatly flourished, turning the valley into a highly sought-after spot for travelers from around the globe. The valley offers a wide range of attractions and activities.The valley’s modern infrastructure and facilities, such as cable cars, ski lifts, hotels, restaurants, shops, and museums, make it known for its exceptional service and warm hospitality.
History Of Wildschönau
Wildschönau, has a rich history dating back to 1193-95 when Bavarian count Henry of Lechsgemünd-Rettenberg relocated a group of people to the Herrenchiemsee cloister. The valley was likely settled by Bavarian farmers in the 12th and 13th centuries. Each of the four church villages was established as a separate parish, with the oldest church in Thierbach dating back to the 13th century.
The valley was part of the county of Tyrol since 1363, when it was acquired by the Habsburgs from the Wittelsbachs. It was divided into four quarters, each corresponding to one of the four church villages, with each quarter having its own judge and council. The valley experienced significant independence and self-governance, with the “Wildschönauer Weistum” established in 1511.
The valley underwent significant economic and social transformations during the 19th and 20th centuries, with tourism emerging as a promising new income source. The valley has seen significant development in its tourist infrastructure, including hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and cable cars. It has become a sought-after spot for winter sports, particularly skiing.
Tourism In Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a unique valley in Tirol that attracts around 400,000 visitors and 2 million overnight stays annually. The valley offers a variety of attractions, activities, and services for all seasons and preferences, including skiing, hiking, biking, paragliding, culture, history, and nature. The valley’s main markets are Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
According to the Wildschönau Tourist Information, the valley generates approximately 100 million euros in tourism revenue per year, with lodging accounting for 60%, food and drink accounting for 20%, transportation accounting for 10%, and other services and activities accounting for 10%. Each year, the valley spends approximately 20 million euros on tourism.
The valley has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, holiday apartments, chalets, guesthouses, inns, and camping sites. The average occupancy rate is 60%, with higher rates in winter and summer and lower rates in spring and autumn. The average price per night is 50 euros, with higher prices in hotels and lower prices in camping sites and RV parks.
Best Time To Visit Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a picturesque valley that offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and tastes. Spring is a beautiful time to visit, as the valley awakens from its winter slumber and flowers begin to bloom. The mild weather, fresh air, lower prices, and fewer tourists make it an ideal time to enjoy cultural events like the Easter Market, Maypole Festival.
Summer is the busiest season, with outdoor activities like hiking, biking, paragliding, swimming, fishing, golfing, and more. Visitors can also visit the Wildschönau Adventure Park, which offers a high ropes course, climbing wall, zip line, and giant swing. The valley also hosts festivals like the Alpine Rose Festival, Tyrolean Evening, and Cattle Drive.
Wildschönau is a picturesque valley that transforms into a vibrant display of colors in autumn, offering panoramic views and a quieter, more authentic vibe. Visitors can participate in customs and traditions like the Harvest Festival, Advent in the Mountains, and the Christmas Market. In winter, the valley becomes a snow and ice wonderland, offering activities like skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing.
Transportation In Wildschönau
Wildschönau is conveniently located in the heart of Tirol, making it easily accessible by car. It is situated halfway between the Bavarian border and Innsbruck. Kufstein and Kitzbühel are just a short 25 km away. The A12 motorway nearby is perfect for car travel. It is just a short 10-kilometer drive from the Wörgl-Ost exit, taking the scenic Wildschönauer Landesstraße and the Wörgler Berg.
Wildschönau has excellent train connections, being located near the Wörgl railway junction. This junction is on the direct line from Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Munich. Transportation options from the Wörgl railway station include buses and taxis, providing convenient access to the valley. There are buses that operate from the railway station during the day until early evening.
If you plan on visiting Wildschönau during the winter and wish to experience the ski area Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau, utilizing the ski bus is a convenient way to reach the slopes. The ski bus provides convenient transportation to the valley station of the Schatzberg cable car in Auffach, the Markbachjoch cable car in Niederau, and the Schiesshüttl lift in Oberau.
Ski Resort Wildschönau
Ski Resort Wildschönau consists of four interconnected mountains: Wiedersberger Horn, Schatzberg, Markbachjoch, and Reither Kogel. The ski area is part of the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau, which also includes the nearby ski resort of Alpbach. The resort offers an impressive 113 km of slopes, 45 lifts, and a diverse selection of winter activities.
The ski area is split into four sectors, each with its own distinct features and attractions. Located in the Alpbach valley, the Wiedersberger Horn is the largest and most varied sector. This sector offers a variety of options for skiers and snowboarders, including 47 km of slopes with a mix of red and blue difficulty levels. With 18 lifts available, getting around the area is convenient.
Additionally, there are plenty of amenities such as a snow park, ski school, children’s area, and various mountain huts and restaurants to enhance your experience. The sector boasts a truly awe-inspiring panoramic view of the majestic mountains that surround it, with the Wiedersberger Horn standing tall at an impressive elevation of 2,025 m.
Attractions & Landmarks In Wildschönau
Wildschönau has a lot to offer, from its breathtaking natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage and exciting outdoor activities. There are numerous breathtaking landscapes to discover, ranging from cable cars that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys to beautiful gorges with magnificent natural scenery.
With its extensive network of slopes, lifts, and huts, the Ski Juwel resort is a winter sports enthusiast’s paradise. It provides numerous opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities. The Bergbauern Museum, a fascinating display of mountain farmers’ traditional life and culture, is located in the region. It provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about the region’s rich history and customs.
The St. Sixtus and Oswald Church, which features stunning Gothic architecture and a magnificent Baroque altar, is one of the town’s most notable landmarks. The Tiroler Holzmuseum, which showcases the art and craft of wood carving, and the Familienpark Drachental, an amusement park with a dragon-themed playground and a variety of activities for families, are also available in the region.
Things To Do In Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a destination with a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit all types of visitors. This valley has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation. You can immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and traditions by visiting the four charming villages of Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach.
The opportunity to take cable cars to the tops of the Markbachjoch and Schatzberg mountains is one of the highlights of Wildschönau. From these peaks, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the valley and surrounding mountains. The cable car rides are even free if you have a Wildschönau card, which you can get from your lodging provider.
A visit to the Kundl Gorge is a must for nature lovers. This natural wonder connects the Wildschönau and Inn valleys and provides breathtaking views of impressive rock formations and thundering waterfalls. You can explore the gorge on foot or by bus, which runs frequently between the villages and the gorge. There’s even a small train called the Bummelzug that offers a scenic and enjoyable ride for both children and adults.
Food & Drinks In Wildschönau
Wildschönau, a picturesque valley in the east of Tirol, Austria, offers a variety of culinary delights for visitors. Loya Stub’n Moser is a cozy restaurant in Oberau that serves German and Austrian food with a twist, using fresh and local ingredients to create regional and seasonal specialties like the Wildschönau Krautinger. The restaurant has a sunny terrace with a panoramic view of the mountains.
Dorfstub’n Niederau is a popular spot for nightlife and entertainment in Niederau, offering Italian and American dishes, as well as a variety of drinks and cocktails. Cafe Konditorei Hacker is a traditional bakery and cafe in Rattenberg, the smallest town in Austria, famous for its cakes and pastries, including the Rattenberger Schlosskuchen, a chocolate cake with a secret recipe.
Tennenwirt Restaurant & Bar is a modern and stylish restaurant in Söll, part of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental ski area. The restaurant offers international and European cuisine, with a focus on quality and creativity. The menu features dishes such as salmon tartare, lamb chops, and apple strudel, as well as a selection of wines and beers. The restaurant also has a bar area with a fireplace and a lounge, where guests can relax and enjoy the music.
